The recent resignation of Megan Carpenter as dean of the University of New Hampshire’s Franklin Pierce School of Law has brought renewed attention to the hybrid J.D. program she helped establish in 2019. Concerns have emerged among students and faculty about the effectiveness and management of this innovative approach to legal education. Students and a former faculty member have voiced issues with the structure, support, and delivery of the program, which combines online and in-person instruction.
The hybrid J.D. program was designed to provide flexibility for students who cannot commit to a traditional on-campus schedule, aiming to broaden access to legal education. However, some participants have raised concerns about the quality of online instruction and the adequacy of support services. These complaints underline potential challenges in balancing rigorous academic standards with the flexible format the program promises.
UNH Law School’s hybrid program is part of a broader trend in legal education to adapt to changing student needs, especially following the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Similar initiatives at other institutions have met with varying degrees of success. A 2021 report by the American Bar Association highlighted the growing popularity of hybrid and online J.D. programs, noting both the opportunities and challenges they present to institutions and students alike.
While the hybrid model is lauded for its potential to democratize legal education, the execution and resource allocation remain critical factors in its success. The administration at UNH Law is reportedly reviewing the program to address these concerns, an effort indicative of a commitment to improving the quality and responsiveness of their educational offerings.
As universities continue experimenting with hybrid models, maintaining a balance between innovation and educational quality will be essential. The situation at UNH Law serves as a reminder of the ongoing adjustments necessary to offer an effective and inclusive legal education in today’s shifting landscape.